Palestinian Statehood Bid Reignited at the United Nations

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas will be seated among U.N. member states at the General Assembly for the first time. However, the Palestinian Authority remains a non-member observer state. Despite recent support for full membership, the Security Council has yet to act on the recommendation. The U.S. previously vetoed Palestine’s bid in 2011 and 2023.

President Mahmoud Abbas of Palestine will be seated with U.N. member states in the General Assembly, marking a historic first. This step comes amid ongoing efforts to elevate the Palestinian Authority's status from a non-member observer state to a full member.

Although the General Assembly has shown overwhelming support for Palestinian membership, granting it some additional rights as of September 2024, it is crucial to note that the ultimate decision lies with the U.N. Security Council. The council's approval is required for Palestine to gain full membership, but U.S. opposition remains a significant obstacle.

The current situation echoes the 2011 bid, where a Security Council committee failed to reach a consensus, leading to the U.S. vetoing the Palestinian application. This repeated veto underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding Palestinian statehood.

(With inputs from agencies.)